Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

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Making Mindful Moments: 3 UL Locations for Mental Self-Care 

Read about Maddy’s spots to unwind during stressful times:

UL Global
2–3 minutes

Student life at the University of Limerick is a full-time commitment. This, alongside life’s additional everyday responsibilities of work and relationships, contributes to what may sometimes be a heavy mental load. When overwhelmed by these intersections of stress, it’s crucial we set aside time to decompress.  

Inspired by my use of the “3-3-3 Rule,” a grounding practice used to reconnect the body and mind when affected by anxiety, I’ve selected my top three on-campus locations to visit in times of need. Whether it’s to take a few deep breaths, enjoy a quiet lunch break, or surround yourself with nature, these spaces provide a sense of comfort and calm for your next mindful moment. 

  1. The Living Bridge 
A picture of the Living Bridge and the river Shannon

The Living Bridge, while one of the busiest spots on this list, sways with encouragement when you step upon it. There are several wider areas with seating that invite one to stop when walking across and sit with nature. The river flowing through provides a soothing visual and sound. Swans, herons, cormorants, and other birds, basking their wings and peacefully floating along, are also a common sight. This location is perfect for connecting with the local community while also pausing to observe the sights in front of you. 

A close up on the river and a bird sitting on a floating branch
  1. Plassey House Fountain and Arboretum 
The Plassey Fountain surrounded by the Main Building

Also known as the ‘White House’, the Plassey House is an easy spot to find when exploring campus. To the rear of the house sits a grand fountain and one of the university’s arboretum areas. There are benches here to accommodate a break. The rushing waters of the fountain accompanied by birdsong are a remedy to a racing mind. If you find relief in trees or birdwatching, this location offers ideal companionship from both. 

  1. Memorial Garden 
The memorial garden on a sunny day

If you like a spot filled with flowers and the gentle hum of a water feature, this location is for you. The butterflies and bees buzzing around create a serene environment. One can sit on the raised walls of the garden and take in the surrounding scents and sounds. This spot is also a pretty setting for those who are interested in photography and plant identification.  

I hope this list inspires you to find or create your own places for mindful moments! 

Maddy is a Public History & Cultural Heritage MA student from West Virginia, USA. While they miss the Appalachian Mountains back home, they are eager to call Limerick home for the year. They enjoy museums and parks, long nature walks, video games, scrapbooking, creative writing, and a cozy window view.

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